Pant has been out of action ever since he was involved in a near-fatal car accident in December 2022. He underwent ligament reconstruction on his right knee, and also suffered a fractured ankle and wrist.

With the BCCI declaring yesterday (March 12) that he is “fit as a wicketkeeper-batter for the upcoming IPL 2024”, Pant’s long-awaited return will finally become a reality.

Upon getting the green light on his fitness, a statement from Pant said that the comeback makes him feel like he did playing his debut match.

“I’m excited and nervous at the same time. It feels like I’m going to make my debut again,” read the release. “To be able to play cricket again after everything I’ve been through is nothing short of a miracle. I’m grateful to all my well-wishers and fans, and most importantly, the BCCI and staff at NCA. All their love and support continue to give me immense strength.”

Pant made his IPL debut for the Delhi-based franchise in 2016 and has been a part of their set-up since then. He last represented them in 2022, leading them to a fifth-placed finish. The wicketkeeper-batter has scored 2,838 runs in the IPL so far at an average of 34.61 and a strike rate of 147.97.

𝘋𝘪𝘭 𝘴𝘦 𝘢𝘶𝘳 𝘋𝘪𝘭𝘭𝘪 𝘴𝘦, 𝘸𝘦𝘭𝘤𝘰𝘮𝘦 𝘩𝘰𝘮𝘦 𝘙𝘪𝘴𝘩𝘢𝘣𝘩 🫶#YehHaiNayiDilli #ROARFOR2024 #IPL2024 #RishabhPant pic.twitter.com/g9VTMr9xBz

— Delhi Capitals (@DelhiCapitals) March 13, 2024

“I’m excited to return to Delhi Capitals & the IPL – a tournament I enjoy so much,” Pant said after linking up with the Delhi Capitals in the pre-season camp. “Our team owners and support staff have been by my side throughout with their full support, guidance and cooperation at every step, for which I am deeply grateful. I can’t wait to re-unite with my DC family and play in front of the fans again.”